Dear Neighbor,
February is Black History Month — an annual month-long celebration commemorating the accomplishments of African Americans that serves as a way to acknowledge their pivotal contributions to the history of the United States. There are plenty of amazing ways to celebrate Black History Month in Michigan.
In other news, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer will presented her executive budget this week. Michigan Senate Democrats are looking forward to working with Gov. Whitmer to develop another state budget that continues to invest in our state’s most precious resource — our people.
With the legislative year getting underway and Senate floor and committee activity ramping up, there is so much to look forward to for 2024. I hope this newsletter informs you of all the exciting things happening in the Legislature and throughout District 13.
As always, if you or someone you know would like to provide any feedback about what’s happening in Lansing, or needs assistance of any sort, please feel free to reach out to my office. You can email us at SenRBayer@senate.michigan.gov. or call (517) 373-2417.
Rosemary Bayer
State Senator
District 13
Upcoming Events
Calling all residents! Come on down to the Northville Community Center to discuss legislation that will soon be coming into effect. Topics will include education reform, voting law changes, energy and environment legislation, and gun safety legislation!
WHEN: Monday, February 12, 2024, 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
WHERE: Northville Community Center, Banquet Room, 303 W Main St, Northville, MI 48167
In Recent News
Celebrate Black History Month
Throughout the month of February, we honor the rich contributions and achievements of those within the African diaspora in our nation’s history. Join me and my Senate colleagues as we recognize the Black leaders, activists, artists and innovators who have shaped our society and continue to inspire us today. From the civil rights movement to the arts, sciences and beyond — their impact is immeasurable. During this month, let us engage in learning about Black history and promote equality and justice for all. To learn more about how the Michigan Senate Democrats have continued to embrace Black history and legacy, click here.
EGLE Announces MI Clean Water Grants to Help Michigan Communities Upgrade Water Infrastructure, Protect Health and the Environment
Michigan communities recently received over $67.1 million in state grants, part of the MI Clean Water Plan funded by the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). These grants aim to address challenges like sewage overflows into Lake St. Clair and the replacement of hazardous lead drinking water service lines.
The grants support upgrading aging infrastructure, ensuring healthy drinking water and safeguarding Michigan’s environment. Over 70% of Michiganders rely on more than 1,000 community wastewater systems and face issues with aging facilities and emerging challenges like PFAS “forever chemicals.”
Michigan Democrats, Gov. Whitmer and federal agencies are prioritizing funding for aging water infrastructure to protect public health and Michigan’s freshwater resources. Over half of EGLE’s budget typically supports Michigan cities, towns and villages for critical improvements, strengthening their ability to protect residents and natural resources.
Michigan’s Individual Income Tax Filing Season Officially Begins on January 29
The Michigan Department of Treasury has announced that Monday, January 29, was the official start date of the 2024 tax season when the agency will begin processing individual income tax returns.
Individuals can file their state income tax return online, with a tax professional or by mailing in paper forms and documentation. All state of Michigan income tax returns and payment of any taxes owed must be received by April 15, 2024. For the convenience of taxpayers, the state’s individual income tax deadline is the same date set by the Internal Revenue Service. To learn more, click here.
Here are a few quick tips to help you maximize your state and federal tax return this year:
- Avoid scams: For federal returns, the IRS will only initiate contact with you through regular mail delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. Make sure you do not share your personal tax information via phone, email or social media.
- Utilize free resources: Michigan Free Tax Help connects Michiganders with free, high-quality income tax preparation assistance. Visit MichiganFreeTaxHelp.org to find local help.
- Take advantage of available deductions: You can deduct charitable contributions, property taxes, medical expenses and more from your federal 2023 taxes. Visit IRS.gov/credits-deductions for a full list.
Legislative Updates
Gov. Whitmer to Present Executive Budget Recommendations
Gov. Whitmer unveiled her executive budget recommendations this week to jumpstart the highly anticipated budget season. Each year, her recommendations outline her priorities for the state and help shape the fiscal year budget.
My Senate colleagues and I are excited to work with Gov. Whitmer, alongside the Michigan State Budget Office, lawmakers in the House, residents and various other stakeholders and experts to achieve a comprehensive, fiscally responsible budget that speaks to the interests and needs of Michiganders everywhere.
Building a state budget is always a team effort, and I look forward to securing investments and support for District 13 residents.
To learn more about executive budget recommendations and the state budget process, click here.